WASHINGTON – The U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services, a division of the Department of Homeland Security, already has drafted a plan for processing 13 million illegal alien applicants for amnesty in a 30-week period at an estimated cost of $1 billion, WND has learned.

The plan, a copy of which was obtained by WND, anticipates the approval of so-called “Comprehensive Immigration Reform” legislation pending in Congress and assumes a nine-month ramp-up period for processing of applications.

The undated draft report anticipates the possibility of the legislation requiring public benefits to amnesty applicants.

Under the plan, applicants 14 through 79 years old would be required to submit themselves for photographs, a full set of fingerprints and a signature. A photo and single print would be required for others.

Only one outside contractor is discussed in the memo – Northrop Grumman – and the plan suggests negotiating a contract now, even before the legislation is approved. It also calls for volunteer help at local service centers and field offices.

The last time Washington attempted a push for amnesty under the guise of “Comprehensive Immigration Reform,” under President George W. Bush in 2007, the project triggered an outcry from talk radio and the public. It failed as a result. However, the political makeup of the Congress has changed since then, becoming even more Democratic.

Democratic leaders recognize their control of both houses is in jeopardy in the November elections and are determined to pass the amnesty program – though they abhor that word.

Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., has enlisted evangelical leaders to promote the plan. Democrats are determined to get at least some Republican support for the measure so the party is not held to account for amnesty like it is for another unpopular piece of legislation following the health-care debate that already threatens many Democrat seats.

Even Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., and Sen. Lindsay Graham, R-S.C., formerly vociferous proponents of the plan during the Bush administration, have distanced themselves from efforts in the Senate to revive it.

“You can play a vital role,” Schumer told religious leaders including Richard Land of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission and Mathew Staver of Liberty Counsel, saying Republicans have great respect for them. “So please, if you could, help us get some Republicans just to sit in a room and talk to us.”